Gardening with Allergies
According to an article from LOWES – Lets Build Something Together web site, The pollen season is here and lasts until the first frost. Short of never going outdoors, here are some things a gardener can do:
- Plant insect-pollinated plants in your garden.
- Avoid gardening from 5-10 AM. Pollen levels are usually at their highest at this time, especially when the weather is hot and calm or very windy.
- Wear a mask,hat and glasses. Avoid taking pollen-covered clothing into the house.
- Wash thoroughly, including your hair, after gardening sessions.
- Keep weeds in check by vigilant mowing, pulling and mulching, or by planting ground cover.
- Replace hedges with fences or walls.
- Install a water garden.
- Check the local pollen count. The pollen count monitors pollen levels in the air and can help you when planning outdoor activities.
- Avoid “seedless” or “male” varieties of trees or shrubs. These are typically wind-borne pollen producers. Although most plant tags do not designate which, if any, sex the plant is, it doesn’t hurt to check.
Rain or a change in the weather will remove a lot of pollen from the air. Moisture from that same rain can also prompt new blooms on some troublesome plants and increase mold spores.
Mold spores are also a cause of distress for many allergy sufferers. They can occur in dry or wet weather, depending on the type. Less seasonal but just as irritating are indoor allergens. Molds, dust, dust mites and pet dander are persistent and troublesome to many people.
Use these items to help improve the indoor environment:
- Air purifier with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Arresting Filtration) filter.
- Dehumidifier to dry out basements or other damp rooms.
- Air conditioner with a clean filter.
